The Mining Remediation Authority confirmed the incident is related to historic coal mining and it will therefore take responsibility for remediation.

During June, the Scottish Government allocated £1 million to ensure the local authority could cover expenses incurred as a result of the emergency action, such as temporary housing, welfare and staffing costs. 

A reimbursement will be provided for any costs incurred by the Scottish Government and Clackmannanshire Council for the response to the incident, as long as they are within the Mining Remediation Authority’s remit.

Somerville said: “Whilst residents will be relieved that there is now a cause identified and next steps can be progressed, this is of course going to mean considerable disruption and continued distress whilst permanent solutions can be found for those who have been displaced and my thoughts are with all those who have been affected.

“The Scottish Government will continue to participate in the resilience and recovery operation and work with Clackmannanshire Council.

“The Scottish Government has made £1 million available to the council to support residents, and we understand that some of this will now be reimbursed by the MRA.”

Somerville added: “The Scottish Government has confirmed that this will be made available to the Council and that financial flexibilities remain in place so they can continue to provide support to residents.

“We will also work with the council and Kingdom Housing Association to maximise opportunities to secure property in the local area, this includes providing flexibilities to Clackmannanshire Council to draw on funding available through the Affordable Housing Supply Programme.

“I urge the Mining Remediation Authority to ensure claims for remediation or compensation are dealt with as quickly as possible.”

Looking forward, residents of 97 evacuated homes will now be protected by law, with the UK Government covering costs. Some residents will be unable to go back to their homes. 

The authority is engaging with those affected by the incident to deliver specialist support.